Building a Culture that Values Voting is Essential for Increased Voter Turnout

Voting is an activity the entire community can get behind. It binds communities together under the idea that everyone has something valuable to contribute in a democracy. Below are several practices that participation communities and individuals adopt to create a culture that makes voting a priority.

Group Voting

Group voting is when individuals come together to vote. Voting as a group has several advantages: voters can carpool to the polling station, share the experience of voting with others, and ensure that friends cast a ballot. Voting in a group creates a pro-voting culture that values everyone having a say. Doodle.com is a resource that can help group voting organizers coordinate the schedules of those in their group.

Voting Fairs in Public Spaces A voting fair can bring a community together, while also informing residents about voting practices and procedures. They can be held in any large, public space – a school’s gym, a local park, a “Main Street.” Political and community organizations can set up booths or other attractions. Information about candidates, as well as good voting practices, can be distributed at these events. Holding a voting fair increases the excitement around Election Day and voter engagement. In Peru, voting fairs are commonplace, and often combined with candidate forums and town-hall meetings.Events Near Polling StationsPotential voters may find long lines at polling stations daunting. One solution is to throw parties or host other fun events at polling stations. This makes the process more enjoyable and attracts more voters to the ballot box. Local or regional bands may be happy to play for the publicity alone. Companies are often willing to donate food, but there are other options too. In the past, companies have offered free ice cream, clothing discounts and even beer to voters. The potential for this pro-participation practice is huge. Studies have shown that material incentives to vote can nearly double turnout. This is particularly meaningful in small elections where turnout is much lower than in national contests. While this is a powerful method, it must be practiced carefully. Direct turnout incentives that are only given to voters are banned in federal elections. Only California and Alaska allow them in state and local elections. However, no law prohibits organizations from simply giving out free or discounted goods at polling stations, throwing parties at polling stations, and engaging in a myriad of other activities that make voting more fun.Organizational Reminders Most people belong to some association or another through their workplaces, service programs, religious affiliations, etc. Asking these groups to remind their members about voting – the date of election days, how to find their polling places, and other useful information – is an easy, effective way to reach a captive audience. Group e-mails, mailings and announcements at events are all viable methods for encouraging members to vote. By endorsing the democratic process, large groups can work toward improving voter participation.